INEC and National Assembly collaborate to ensure credible elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the National Assembly have jointly pledged their commitment to ensuring credible elections in the states of Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi.

This commitment was made during the inaugural meeting of the Senate and House of Representatives committees on electoral matters, which took place in Abuja on Monday. The meeting brought together key figures such as INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmoud Yakubu, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Chairman of the Senate Committee on INEC, and Hon. Bayo Balogun, his counterpart from the House of Representatives.

The upcoming gubernatorial elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi are on the horizon, and it is of paramount importance to ensure they are conducted with credibility and transparency.

During the meeting, Professor Yakubu presented INEC’s plans and preparations for the forthcoming elections, assuring all stakeholders of the commission’s readiness to collaborate with the National Assembly to enhance the electoral process in the country.

Senator Alli, in his address, urged INEC to make every effort within its capacity to ensure the elections in these three states meet the standard of credibility.

He emphasized that the meeting was convened to discuss critical issues related to INEC’s activities and preparations for the impending elections. Additionally, Senator Alli highlighted the notable achievements of the 9th Assembly, particularly the passage of the Electoral Act, 2022, and the Electoral Offences Commission Establishment Bill, 2022.

He stated, “There are pending technical issues that need attention concerning the Electoral Offences Committee Bill, and there have been calls for possible improvements on the Electoral Act, 2022. The committee will also organize zonal interactive sessions with stakeholders to address pre-election matters and potential omissions in the Electoral Act, Electoral Offences Commission (Establishment) Bill, and other relevant issues.”

This collaborative effort between INEC and the National Assembly underscores their dedication to ensuring free and fair elections in the upcoming gubernatorial contests in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi states.